At Disney’s D23 event, Dwayne Johnson, known for voicing the charismatic demigod Maui in Disney Animation’s “Moana” films, received a standing ovation while revealing the new trailer for “Moana 2,” promising an exhilarating continuation of the story.
Taking place three years after the original 2016 film, “Moana 2” follows Moana and her crew as they begin on a quest to discover the lost island of Motufetu, concealed by a jealous Storm God.
Johnson highlighted the film’s theme of embracing greater possibilities and pursuing them with courage, reflecting his own Polynesian heritage and its importance for both him and Auli’i Cravalho, who voices Moana. The trailer shows Moana stepping into a leadership role with her young sister Simea, who is portrayed as the center of Moana’s world.
The storyline introduces a new antagonist cloaked in purple light and surrounded by bats, threatening Moana and Maui. Additionally, the Kakamora coconut tribe returns, aiming blow darts at Moana.
The presentation featured Cravalho performing “We’re Back,” a new song for the sequel, accompanied by dancers and drummers from Nonosina Polynesia. The film’s music team includes Grammy winners Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, Pacific icon Opeatia Foa’i, and returning composer Mark Mancina.
Directors David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller take over from the original film’s directors John Musker and Ron Clements. The voice cast also includes Temuera Morrison, Nicole Scherzinger, and Alan Tudyk.
“Moana” was a major hit for Disney, earning over $680 million and streaming extensively on Disney+. The sequel is distinct from the upcoming live-action remake of “Moana,” in which Johnson will reprise his role.